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Tree Care

Urban Forestry within the City's Parks Department is responsible for the planting, care, pruning and removal of all trees on Markham property.

Requests for boulevard trees received by March 31 are planted in spring and early summer. Requests received by July 31 are planted in the fall and early winter, weather and supply permitting.

Tree Care

Markham trees are pruned on an ongoing block pruning program. Trees deemed by Markham arborists as a "hazard" are pruned or removed immediately.

What You Can Do to Help Care for Markham’s Trees

Water them during periods of drought.

Be careful not to damage roots.

Do not deeply mound soil around the base of trees.

Place a 5 to 8 cm deep layer of organic mulch around the base of trees, which helps retain moisture in the root zone and prevents root damage. Mulching can also help promotes better tree growth.

Be careful not to damage the trunks of trees with your mower.

Avoid attaching signs or any other objects to trees; this can wound or injure trees.

A little extra care will go a long way.

Trees in New Developments

Trees planned for new developments and parklands are coordinated through the City.

The Trees for Tomorrow Streetscape Manual [PDF] is a significant resource tool for developers, contractors, residents and staff. It outlines design and technical guidelines, and identifies selected tree species suitable for new developments.

Natural Areas

Trees and all other vegetation within natural areas contribute to the natural ecosystem. Forested areas including the underbush and fallen trees decay naturally, and provide organic material and protection to the forest floor. They also provide a natural habitat and environment for animals, birds and insects. Unless there is a danger to the public, natural areas are left undisturbed. We encourage the community to adopt these areas and help to keep them clean of garbage.